Winter in Australia rarely means freezing temperatures, but that does not stop our skin from feeling the effects of wind, indoor heating and dropping humidity. To get to the bottom of what our skin actually needs this time of year, we sat down with Kiehl’s Head of Education, Sirichai Mukura, to talk through the biggest winter skincare misconceptions, how to tell dryness apart from a compromised barrier, why oily skin can still be dehydrated skin, and the small habits worth rethinking before we head into spring.
What’s the biggest misconception Australians have about winter skincare?
I think we underestimate our winter because it’s not freezing cold. But your skin definitely knows it’s winter. Between the wind, lower humidity, heating, and even hot showers, your skin can lose hydration quite quickly. For me, winter skincare isn’t necessarily about using more products, it’s about keeping the skin hydrated and comfortable. Ultra Facial Cream is always my winter go to because it gives you that hydration without feeling heavy.
How can you tell if your skin barrier is compromised versus just dry?
A little tightness or flakiness can just be seasonal dryness. But if your skin suddenly feels more sensitive, red, itchy, or even products you normally use start to sting, that’s when I would really listen to your skin. Don’t keep throwing more actives at it. Simplify. Hydrate. I love Ultra Facial Cream, and at night I’ll add Midnight Recovery Concentrate when the skin needs a little extra love.
Why do some people get oilier in winter?
This is something I always tell people, oily doesn’t mean hydrated. You can absolutely be oily and dehydrated at the same time. So please don’t see oil and immediately stop moisturizing. Keep the hydration but choose a texture that suits your skin. Something like Ultra Facial Oil Free Gel Cream is perfect if you want that hydration but prefer something really fresh and lightweight.
What should people change as we move from winter into spring?
I actually don’t think you need to suddenly change everything. Let your skin tell you. If it starts getting warmer and your moisturizer feels a little too rich, go lighter. You might keep the same hydrating serum but change the moisturizer texture. And living in Australia, SPF is all year round, winter included.
What’s one thing people do in winter that dermatologists secretly cringe at?
The super hot shower. I’m guilty of loving one too when it’s freezing, but your skin probably doesn’t love it as much as you do. Keep it warm rather than boiling and moisturize afterwards while your skin is still slightly damp. And don’t forget the body. We spend so much time looking after our face and then completely forget everything below the neck. Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream is one of my favorites for keeping the body comfortable and hydrated through winter.
From hydration to SPF, the takeaway is simple. Listen to what your skin is telling you and adjust rather than overhaul. A few thoughtful swaps can make all the difference as the seasons shift.
Thanks to Kheil’s for their expert commentary. All products available at www.kiehls.com.au and Kiehl’s boutiques.
Images supplied
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